GMA Network is now ready for full digitization.

Speaking before business leaders from the Philippines and Asia at the recently concluded 2011 MAP International CEO Conference, GMA Chairman and CEO Atty Felipe Gozon spelled out several ways by which the Kapuso Network is coping with the challenges of digitization: Development of versatile business models; re-purposing of content to accommodate various channels of delivery; and sustained commitment to develop innovative program content.

According to Gozon, despite heightened use of the Internet as a channel to access media content, including entertainment and news, television will not be totally sidelined nor will be it relegated to the background. “Yes, the television set will continue to be an effective – if not the most pervasive – medium at least in the Philippines, for many years to come.”

Gozon says TV has already transformed itself into mainstream media across platforms as evidenced by the rate of TV consumption in the country, which increased to 98% in 2011, from 97% in 2007, according to the report of Synovate.

“However, fast-paced technological developments have caused media to evolve. Today, media players acknowledge that the rules of the game have changed. Actually, there are is no one prevailing rule. The trend is convergence, the vehicle is innovative technologies and the hook is social media. The race is no longer about reaching a large audience – it is connecting with them, 24/7.”